Ori T. White & Associates, Attorney and Counselor-At-Law, Common Questions

Common Questions on Personal Injury Cases

How can I protect myself of identify theft?

One way is to check your credit reports on a regular basis to make sure that no one has obtained credit in your name. As a general rule, do not give out your personal information.

How can I protect my elderly parents from sales calls?

Make sure that their telephone number is on the national “do not call” list. You can also tell your parents to always ask that the sales person leave a call back number. It is very difficult to hang up on aggressive sales people who just won’t take no for an answer. One elderly client bought over $700 in magazines which was just the amount of her social security payment. Fortunately, we reversed these charges. Sometimes, it helps to write out something for your parent to say such as, "Give me your number so my daughter/son can call you back . . .".

If I get a subpoena do I have to go to court?
Yes, you must go to court. If you fail to do so, the judge may impose a fine or a jail sentence. (Be sure to bring your subpoena with you to court.)

If I miss work to testify, who will pay for my loss in wages?
Witnesses must go to court to testify about matters that they have knowledge of. It is a civic duty imposed upon all citizens in order to insure a just and fair judicial system.

I think someone is using my credit cards (or has stolen my driver's license). Can you help me?
If you are a victim of identity theft, you may call your local police. If you live outside the city limits, call your Sheriff's Office. If you live within the city limits, call the city police.

Also, you may also log on to http://www.consumer.gov/idtheft. There you can get a copy of the standard affidavit form for reporting identity theft to creditors. You can report the crime to the Federal Trade Commission's "Consumer Sentinel". Be sure to read the Federal Trade Commission's booklet "When Bad Things Happen to Your Good Name".

Our office recommends that everyone get a copy of your credit report to make sure that you can account for all active credit cards, etc. The 3 major credit reporting agencies are:

Some of these companies offer credit monitoring which would notify you of inquiries into your credit. This can be of value in protecting yourself from identity theft because you can be alerted very promptly. For example, if someone is trying to get credit in your name, you would be alerted and promptly take action.

I think I've been cheated by a contractor, tradesman, shopkeeper, other person who provides labor or services. What do I do?
Call your local police first, then notify your lawyer. If you live outside the city limits, call your Sheriff's Office. If you live within the city limits, call the city police.

I am a merchant. Who can help me collect on a bad check?
The County Attorney's office collects hot checks under $1500.00. The District Attorney’s office collects hot check in excess of $1500.00.